With limited new vehicle supply, and used vehicle prices so high, it’s almost always cheaper to keep an existing vehicle running than to purchase a new one. So, while you may not like your current daily driver, keeping it on the road can save you thousands.
Keep your vehicle clean
Car washes take time out of your busy schedule, but keeping your vehicle clean may help keep it on the road longer. Chicagoland weather is rough on your vehicle. Rain, snow, ice, salt, leaves, dirt, you name it, get all over and can ruin your vehicle’s appearance inside and out. All this stuff accumulates in all the cracks and crevices and eventually will cause rust and corrosion. We’re not asking you to polish your vehicle every day, but give your vehicle a good wash at least once a month and try running it through the carwash to get off the salt and grime.
Also, keep in mind the same goes for your vehicle’s interior. Letting stuff accumulate will make your interior smell and can cause stains or tears on the upholstery. With winter approaching, there will be the same rain, snow, ice, salt, leaves, dirt, you name it, inside the vehicle as well.
Mind your speed
It’s easy to get sucked into the stress of commuting and act irrationally, but the best thing for your vehicle is to drive like you’re aware that it won’t last forever. The fact is that the faster you drive, the more gas your vehicle will use. The stress of hard driving can take a toll on your vehicle’s body structure over time, so you’ll hear more creaks and rattles. Starting and stopping abruptly will prematurely wear your engine and can lead to breakdowns. Using cruise control on long drives will help save gas by avoiding fluctuations in speed. Also, remember to avoid excessive idling.
Park in the shade
Garages are luxuries that many don’t enjoy, but parking in a covered or shady area can help your vehicle last longer. If you do have access to a covered spot, park there as often as possible. Excess sunlight and heat can damage your vehicle’s paint, interior, and rubber components. If your vehicle is frequently in unprotected elements, there are several things you can do to minimize damage:
- Use a windshield shade
- Clean your dash with an automotive protectant
- Keep your vehicle’s exterior clean and protected with wax
- To protect leather and upholstery install seat covers
Mind your tires
Tires are the only part of your vehicle designed to touch the road, so they’re one of the most important parts of vehicle maintenance and preventative care. Improperly inflated tires can cause misalignment and unevenly worn tires can wear components faster. Worn tires also increase your chances of skidding and losing traction.
At My Mechanic, we know a whole lot about tires. If you are unsure about the current condition of your tires, if you are wondering which tire would work best for your driving habits, or if you have any other questions regarding tires, brakes, or other automotive needs, we have the answers.
Take care of routine maintenance
You can feel it in the air, winter is ready to rock and roll but is your vehicle ready for winter? Yes, we know that oil changes, tire rotations, filter replacements, and tune-ups aren’t much fun. Keeping track of the little stuff generally helps prevent more extensive repairs. Proper lubrication and correct fluid levels also help prevent engine and drivetrain wear. You should think about having your vehicle winterized before the cold stuff really socks it to Chicago. Ice, hail, freezing temps, and let’s not forget about rock salt, slush, and mud.
There are quite a few benefits to using your local mechanic. Let’s take a closer look at what we can offer.
More Cost-Effective
At My Mechanic, while we do have an hourly rate, we can be more flexible and charge you for finding that electrical short or just the diagnostic fee (of course the repair and parts are separate fees). A dealer may be bound by a set hourly price, including a minimum charge, for some work, while your local mechanic can be more flexible.
Neighborhood repair shops need your business and your trust, so being fair with pricing will work to their advantage in the long run.
Convenience
If you rely on your vehicle every day, any trip to have it serviced or repaired can be quite inconvenient. By using My Mechanic, it’s most likely closer to where you live or work than the automotive dealership. In many instances, My Mechanic, with its two locations, will be able to take your vehicle in for service much faster than a dealership.
The Personal Touch
Your neighborhood repair shop often employs the same mechanics and staff for decades. They greet you by name and they remember your vehicle’s history, as well as your personal preferences.
If you need help winterizing your vehicle or if it’s simply time for your vehicle, truck, or SUV to be serviced, you can trust the ASE-certified professionals at My Mechanic to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape for the upcoming winter weather.
